The Mazda CX-5 will undergo a full model change on July 10, 2025. Many people are probably wondering whether they should wait for the new model or choose the current, mature model.
In this article, we’ll thoroughly review the current CX-5 and why it’s the car you should buy now. The bottom line is that the current CX-5 offers the best value for money SUV, with a perfect combination of price, equipment, and finish. By reading this article, you’ll understand why you should choose the current model rather than waiting for a full model change.
Why is the current CX-5 model a good buy now?
Typically, people tend to hold off on buying a model that is about to undergo a full model change. However, the CX-5 offers some benefits that come with its current maturity . With prices expected to rise and specifications changed for the new model, this could be considered the last chance to purchase the current, fully-fledged model at the current price range.
Six reasons why we strongly recommend the current CX-5
Reason 1: The overwhelming reliability of the current, perfected model
Mazda CX-5
The current CX-5 has been refined over many years and is now perfect in every aspect. The balance between design, driving performance, and equipment has reached a perfect level, making it a truly mature model. The hybrid system and new technologies rumored to be introduced with the full model change are also appealing, but the lack of trouble and stable quality that come with maturity are major advantages unique to the current model.
Reason 2: Perfect for Japanese roads! Just the right size for multi-story parking garages
Mechanical parking pallet width
One of the great attractions of the CX-5 is its exquisite body size. With a length of just over 4.5m and a width of 1.85m, it fits perfectly into Japan’s road environment. In particular, its ability to clear the pallet width and width restrictions of 1.85m for mechanical parking (multi-story parking) , which are a challenge in urban areas, is a major advantage that the higher-end CX-60 and CX-80 models do not have. There is also the possibility that the new CX-5 will be larger when it undergoes a full model change, so when considering everyday usability, the current CX-5’s “just right size” will be of immeasurable value.
Reason 3: Price destruction! The extensive standard equipment has earned it the nickname ” the best value SUV .”
The biggest reason it’s called the ” best value for money SUV ” is the incredible balance between price and equipment.
- Comfortable even in summer! Seat ventilation is now standard equipment. With the 2023 model improvement, seat ventilation has been made standard equipment, which is unusual for this price range. With a vehicle price of 3,581,600 yen (FF), this comfortable equipment is only available on a few models, such as the higher grades of Toyota’s Harrier, and it surpasses its rivals in the SUV category.
- It’s also fully equipped with cutting-edge features! The latest Mazda Connect and head-up display feature the latest generation “Mazda Connect” with a large 10.25-inch display, and a head-up display that allows you to check all the information you need to drive without having to move your eyes. There’s no shortage of advanced equipment.
- Even the rear seats get VIP treatment! Rear seat heaters are standard , something not available in the Harrier or other cars in the same class . Consideration is given not only to the front seats, but also to passengers in the rear seats.
What’s surprising is that this luxuriously equipped FF model can be purchased for a total of approximately 4.2 million yen . This is an astonishing price that allows you to purchase a high-quality SUV for less than the price of a Toyota Harrier if you are looking for similar equipment .
| grade | engine | Drive system | Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20S i Selection [New setting] |
SKYACTIV-G 2.0 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine |
FF | 2,810,500 yen |
| 4WD | 3,041,500 yen | ||
| 20S Black Selection [New Setting] |
FF | 3,140,500 yen | |
| 4WD | 3,371,500 yen | ||
| 20s Field Journey | 4WD | 3,520,000 yen | |
| 20S Retro Sports Edition | FF | 3,426,500 yen | |
| 4WD | 3,657,500 yen | ||
| Sport appearance | SKYACTIV-G 2.5 2.5L 4-cylinder direct injection gasoline engine |
FF | 3,581,600 yen |
| 4WD | 3,812,600 yen | ||
| XD i Selection [New setting] |
SKYACTIV-D 2.2 2.2L 4-cylinder direct injection turbo diesel engine |
FF | 3,129,500 yen |
| 4WD | 3,360,500 yen | ||
| XD Black Selection [New Setting] |
FF | 3,459,500 yen | |
| 4WD | 3,690,500 yen | ||
| XD Field Journey | 4WD | 3,839,000 yen | |
| XD Retro Sports Edition | FF | 3,745,500 yen | |
| 4WD | 3,976,500 yen | ||
| XD Sport appearance | FF | 3,900,600 yen | |
| 4WD | 4,131,600 yen | ||
| XD Exclusive Mode | FF | 3,994,100 yen | |
| 4WD | 4,225,100 yen |
Reason 4: Luxury and sporty interior and exterior design that exceeds its class
MAZDA CX-5
MAZDA CX-60
Exterior: The later model CX-5’s bold front mask has been highly praised, with some saying it’s “more stylish than the CX-60. ” The “Sport Appearance” model features a uniform black grille, fenders, and wheels, creating a sharp, sporty impression.
Interior: Attention to detail can be seen throughout the interior, including the stitching on the door trim, the metallic rings for the Bose sound system, and the high-quality genuine leather seats. Furthermore, the roof lining (ceiling lining) is also unified in black, creating a high-quality, calming interior space.
Reason 5: Experience the feeling of “oneness between man and horse” with the refined 2.5L engine and 2.2L diesel engine and a high-quality driving experience
Mazda’s pursuit of “oneness between man and machine” driving is still alive and well in the CX-5.
- Smooth acceleration and quietness: The combination of a mature 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission allows the driver to accelerate at will. It’s also extremely quiet while driving, with some saying it feels quieter than the higher-end CX-80. The mature 2.2L diesel turbo engine provides ample power from the low range. At the same time, the starting acceleration can sometimes feel too good.
- Natural steering feel: The natural steering feel, from low to high speeds, is so natural that compared to the CX-60 and CX-80, the CX-5 gives the feeling of being one with the driver. This is a car that will make your daily driving enjoyable.
Reason 6: Easy on the wallet! Economical regular gasoline or diesel specifications
Despite its powerful 2.5L engine, it runs on regular gasoline. A major benefit is that it reduces daily running costs compared to 2.2L diesel engines, which have lower fuel consumption and cheaper fuel, or premium-octane vehicles. The gasoline model has a WLTC mode fuel economy of 13.8km/L (FF), while the diesel model has a WLTC mode fuel economy of 17.4km/L (FF), so it’s not particularly fuel-efficient, but considering the low vehicle price, it can be said that the overall economy is very high.
Stable popularity in the domestic market
In recent years, the CX-5 has been gaining particular attention for its growing popularity among younger generations in their 20s and 30s. Surprisingly, data shows that people in their 20s and 30s account for the majority of buyers. This shows that the CX-5’s balance of “adult luxury” and “affordable pricing” has captured the hearts of the younger generation.
The CX-5 has also enjoyed consistent popularity in Japan. As the SUV market expands, its sophisticated design and comfortable ride have earned it the support of many users. While domestic sales in 2023 are expected to fall below the previous year, it remains Mazda’s top seller, once again demonstrating its presence.
Actual voices and reviews of CX-5 owners
Owners talk about their satisfaction points
CX-5
Here are some of the comments we hear from satisfied CX-5 owners:
Exterior and interior quality: “Both the exterior and interior are excellent. It’s packed with safety features and convenient functions, and the price is reasonable,” and the combination of design and functionality has been highly praised.
Satisfaction with driving performance: The driving performance has also been highly rated, with comments such as “The driving is stable and fun to drive” and “The diesel model’s high torque gives you a sense of security even on the highway.”
Good cost performance: Many people comment that the CX-5 is “great value for money” and “highly satisfying for the price,” making it a major attraction.
The CX-5 is definitely worth buying now. Its
user-friendly size, sufficient engine, and relatively affordable price…
It’s true that it’s lacking in some areas compared to the latest 7th generation, but that doesn’t mean you can drive it with peace of mind.
Even though it’s a large model at the end of its lifespan, the CX-5 is the perfect time to buy
. 😆 pic.twitter.com/UT0oBO6fbd— Katari (@katari_ytch) May 10, 2025
Issues faced by owners
MAZDA CX-5
However, owners have also pointed out the following challenges:
Usability of Mazda Connect : There are a relatively large number of people who say that Mazda Connect is difficult to use, and there are voices calling for improvements to the infotainment system.
Some people say that the engine noise of diesel vehicles bothers them, but this is said to be largely a matter of personal preference.
The psychology and motivations of those who choose the CX-5
The desire for both practicality and beauty
Many people who choose the CX-5 have the mentality that they don’t want to compromise on aesthetics as well as practicality. Even if it’s a practical car for the family, they tend to want a design that they will be happy to drive.
This mentality is particularly prevalent among men in their 30s and 40s, and reflects the modern value of wanting to balance the demands of family with personal preferences.
Trust and expectations in the brand
Trust in the Mazda brand is also a major motivation for choosing the CX-5. The brand is characterized by such high brand loyalty that there is a phenomenon known as “Mazda Hell,” where people say, “Once you’ve driven a Mazda, you’ll always choose a Mazda.”
This is because Mazda is recognized for its consistent philosophy of “driving pleasure” and its sincere commitment to technological development.
Summary: The smart choice is the “complete CX-5” before the full model change
The Mazda CX-5 is a miraculous car that meets all of the following criteria at a high level: perfection, size, overwhelming cost performance, design, and driving performance, all of which could only be achieved at the end of the model’s life .
In particular, the fact that you can get luxury features such as seat ventilation for just 3 million yen is unrivaled in the current SUV market. With a price increase due to the full model change almost certain, now is the only time you can get a CX-5 with this much value at this price.
If you want to “get the best SUV in the smartest way,” there’s only one choice. Rather than waiting for a full model change, choosing the current, mature CX-5 will be the most satisfying choice.
